A ROYAL Navy Officer from Salisbury, awarded the OBE by Her Majesty the Queen in the New Year’s Honours List, has attended his Investiture Ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

Captain Richard Ingram who was awarded his OBE by Prince Charles has now retired from the Royal Navy after nearly 37 years service.

Capt Ingram, joined the Royal Navy in 1979 and went on to serve around the world including the Falklands Conflict, Iraq and Bosnia.

A keen swimmer and hill walker, he moved to Salisbury in 1988 and his wife Sally has worked at Salisbury Fire Station for more than 20 years.

From 2010, he served in Oman for nearly six years and has been described as “a pivotal figure, significantly influencing the Omani Navy and forging links that have enhanced the United Kingdom’s reputation in the region”.

Speaking about his award, Capt Ingram said: “It was an immense honour to be presented the OBE by His Royal Highness Prince Charles, the ceremony was a wonderful occasion and I feel so proud to have served in the Royal Navy for a very rewarding career.

“This award represents not only the work that I undertook in Oman but also the highly professional abilities of all my team there and the wonderful support of my family.”

Capt Ingram has now formed an independent company called Albahar Consulting Ltd, aiming to provide specialist services and especially to local companies.

He has recently linked with Our Wilton to support the development of the Veterans’ Campus at the previous HQ Land Command site.

The campus is a new initiative that will provide an essential stepping stone to civilian life for many veterans across the South West, that are in need of facilities, accommodation and training.